1. Buy good seed. Good breeding in flowers is as important as good breeding in livestock. Do not allow the price alone to determine which annual seeds are purchased, because sometimes the more expensive seed produces the largest and most double flowers.

 2. Each year, gardeners should try and increase their circle of acquaintances in the garden. Variety is the spice of the garden, so try some new ones this year even if you don't know their names.

 3. Beds or planting areas should be large enough to make a good eyeful. Seeds should be sown in large drifts or groupings, for the best effects and a colorful displays. Remember, one of Nature's laws is abundance.

 4. Prepare the soil thoroughly before seeding. Soil should be worked or turned over with a spade, adding compost or well-decayed manure to improve the soil. Level and raked into a fine seed-bed, removing the clumps and rocks.

 5. Sow seeds thinly. If the seeds are very small, this can be a difficult task. Sand or other materials can be mixed with fine seeds to aid in sowing.

 6. Do not sow the seeds to deep. Consider the load that the little sprout has to lift in pushing through the soil. Use the recommended planting depths listed on the individual packets, for the best germination. Fine seeds can be covered with burlap instead of soil.

 7. Thin out or transplant crowded plantings to their recommended spacing, so they don't become tall and leggy. This should be done early in their growth so there is no struggle for existence.

 8. Cultivate the soil around your annuals to control weeds and let moisture in. This will be easier if your plants are properly spaced far enough apart.

 9. Remove faded or spent flowers to keep them blooming. Annuals will stop blooming if they are allowed to ripen seeds. Flowers can also be picked fresh and enjoyed indoors.

 10. Water thoroughly or not at all. Do not coax the roots to the surface with frequent light waterings, a deep soaking of the soil is much better for the plants.